Anxiolytics/Sedatives/Hypnotics (Includes Suvorexant) ↔ Depression

Severe Potential Hazard, Moderate plausibility

Applies to: Depression

A variety of abnormal thinking and behavior changes have been reported to occur in association with the use of most anxiolytics, sedatives and hypnotics. Some of these changes include decreased inhibition, aggressiveness, agitation, and hallucinations. These drugs can cause or exacerbate mental depression and cause suicidal behavior and ideation. Therapy with these drugs should be administered cautiously in patients with a history of depression or other psychiatric disorders. Patients should be monitored for any changes in mood or behavior. It may be prudent to refrain from dispensing large quantities of medication to these patients.

Some anxiolytic, sedative and hypnotic drugs have not been studied in patients with severe renal impairment and should not be used on these patients.

Major

Suvorexant (Includes Suvorexant) ↔ Impaired Respiratory Function

Severe Potential Hazard, Moderate plausibility

Applies to: Pulmonary Impairment

Suvorexant has respiratory depressant effects and should be used with caution in patients with compromised respiratory function. Suvorexant has not been studied in patients with severe sleep apnea and severe COPD and should not be used in these patients.

Major

Suvorexant (Includes Suvorexant) ↔ Narcolepsy

Severe Potential Hazard, Moderate plausibility

Applies to: Narcolepsy

The use of suvorexant is contraindicated in patient with narcolepsy.

Moderate

Anxiolytics/Sedatives/Hypnotics (Includes Suvorexant) ↔ Glaucoma

Moderate Potential Hazard, Moderate plausibility

Applies to: Glaucoma/Intraocular Hypertension, Urinary Retention

Some hypnotic drugs can have an anticholinergic effect and should be used with caution in patients with glaucoma, and trouble urinating due to retention or enlarged prostate.

Moderate

Anxiolytics/Sedatives/Hypnotics (Includes Suvorexant) ↔ Liver Disease

Moderate Potential Hazard, Moderate plausibility

Applies to: Liver Disease

In general, anxiolytics, sedatives and hypnotics are extensively metabolized by the liver. Their plasma clearance may be decreased and their half-life prolonged in patients with impaired hepatic function. Therapy with these drugs should be administered cautiously in patients with liver disease (some are not recommended in severe liver impairment), and the dosage should be adjusted accordingly. Laboratory testing is recommended prior and during treatment.

Do not stop taking any medications without consulting your healthcare provider.

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